Budgeting for Mardi Himal Trek: Tips and Tricks

Trekking in the Himalayas, particularly the Mardi Himal Trek, is an adventure of a lifetime. While the trek offers breathtaking views, a rich cultural experience, and a chance to explore the stunning Annapurna region, the cost of the trek can vary depending on several factors, including the time of year, trekking style, and personal preferences.

Planning a budget is essential to ensure that your Mardi Himal trek is affordable, stress-free, and well-prepared. In this blog, we will provide useful tips and tricks to help you budget effectively for the Mardi Himal Trek, from flights and permits to food and accommodations, ensuring you get the most out of your trek without breaking the bank.

1. International Flights: Plan Ahead to Save

One of the largest expenses for trekkers heading to Nepal is the international flight. The cost of flights can vary significantly depending on the time of year, the airline, and how far in advance you book. To save money on flights, it’s crucial to plan ahead and book as early as possible. The earlier you book, the better chance you have of securing lower fares.

The best time to purchase tickets is about 3 to 6 months before your trip. Keep an eye out for flight deals and promotions, and consider using fare comparison websites to find the best rates. Flights to Kathmandu from major cities in Europe, North America, or Asia can range from $500 to $1,200, depending on your departure location and the season.

Additionally, consider flying with budget carriers to nearby regional hubs, such as Delhi or Bangkok, and then booking a separate flight to Kathmandu, which could potentially save you some money.

2. Nepal Visa: Understand the Costs

Before trekking in Nepal, you’ll need to obtain a visa. The Nepal Tourist Visa can be obtained on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or through the Nepalese embassy in your home country. The visa cost depends on the duration of your stay. As of 2025, the cost is approximately $30 for a 15-day visa, $50 for a 30-day visa, and $125 for a 90-day visa.

It’s essential to check for any changes in visa fees and regulations ahead of your trip, and if you plan to extend your visa during your stay, you can do so for a small additional fee.

3. Accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara

The cost of accommodation in Kathmandu and Pokhara is generally affordable, but prices can fluctuate depending on the season and the type of place you choose to stay. Budget accommodations such as guesthouses and hostels are available for as little as $5 to $20 per night. For those looking for more comfort, mid-range hotels with better facilities may cost between $25 to $50 per night.

In Kathmandu, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options in Thamel, a popular area for tourists. In Pokhara, most trekkers stay near the Lakeside area, where you’ll find numerous guesthouses and restaurants offering reasonable rates.

It’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak trekking seasons (spring and autumn), to secure the best deals and avoid being caught without a room.

4. Food and Accommodation on the Trek

One of the most significant expenses while trekking the Mardi Himal route will be the cost of food and accommodation. The trek passes through several villages and teahouses that provide basic but hearty meals and lodging. In general, accommodation on the trek can range from $3 to $10 per night, depending on the location and teahouse.

Meals, which typically include rice, dal (lentils), noodles, soup, and potatoes, cost between $4 to $10 per meal, with prices increasing as you ascend higher due to the remoteness of the locations. In some of the more isolated teahouses at higher altitudes, food and accommodation may cost more, especially if you’re trekking in the off-season or during peak tourist times.

To keep your costs down, consider eating simple meals, such as dal bhat (rice and lentils), which is a filling and affordable dish. Bringing your own snacks such as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit can also help save on food expenses along the trail.

5. Transportation to and from Trailhead

The trek starts at Kande, which is accessible by road from Pokhara. You’ll need to budget for transportation between Pokhara and Kande. Public buses or shared jeeps are common modes of transportation, and the cost typically ranges between $5 to $10 one way, depending on the vehicle type and the season.

If you prefer a more comfortable option, you can hire a private taxi, but this will cost significantly more, around $30 to $50 for the trip. While it’s possible to walk from Pokhara to Kande, most trekkers opt for transportation to save time and energy, especially if trekking with kids or in a group.

6. Trekking Permits

For the Mardi Himal Trek, you’ll need two main trekking permits: the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card. These permits are required to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area and ensure that the region is properly managed and protected.

The cost for the ACAP is around $30 (3,000 NPR) for foreigners, and the TIMS card costs about $10 (1,000 NPR). You can easily obtain these permits in Pokhara or Kathmandu before starting the trek. Be sure to check for any price changes before your trip and account for these expenses in your budget.

7. Hiring a Guide or Porter

Hiring a guide and/or porter can add an extra cost to your budget, but many trekkers find it invaluable, especially if they are unfamiliar with the region or want to reduce their load on the trail. Guides typically charge between $25 to $30 per day, while porters usually cost around $15 to $20 per day.

Having a guide can enhance your trekking experience by providing insight into the local culture, history, and flora and fauna of the area. A porter can carry your gear and reduce the strain of carrying a heavy backpack. Many trekkers choose to hire both a guide and a porter for convenience and comfort.

8. Additional Costs: Snacks, Beverages, and Tips

While trekking, additional costs such as snacks, beverages, and tips for your guide and porter should be considered in your budget. A bottle of water typically costs around $1 to $2, but prices increase as you ascend, with a bottle of water reaching $4 or more at higher altitudes. Snacks like chocolate, cookies, and energy bars are commonly available, and their prices also rise with altitude.

It’s customary to tip your guide and porter at the end of the trek. Tipping is not obligatory, but it is a common practice to show appreciation for their services. A general tip for a guide ranges from $50 to $100, depending on the quality of service, and for a porter, it’s around $20 to $50.

9. Overall Budget Estimate for Mardi Himal Trek

The total cost of the Mardi Himal Trek will depend on the duration of your trip, your style of travel, and the level of comfort you desire. On average, the total cost for a 7 to 9-day Mardi Himal Trek ranges from $600 to $1,200, including flights, permits, food, accommodation, guide/porter fees, and transportation.

To save money, opt for budget accommodations, eat locally, and avoid unnecessary extras. Planning ahead, booking in advance, and traveling during the off-season can also help reduce costs.

Conclusion

Budgeting for the Mardi Himal Trek requires careful planning and consideration of various factors, including flights, permits, accommodation, food, and transportation. By being mindful of your expenses and planning ahead, you can keep your trek affordable without compromising the quality of your experience.

Whether you choose to hire a guide, eat simple meals, or travel during the off-season, Mardi Himal offers an incredible trekking experience that won’t break the bank when managed properly. With the right approach, you can explore the stunning beauty of the Annapurna region while staying within your budget.